January 17th

Though there will always be trouble I like the comfort in verse 32. Just like the father is with his son we too are never alone we have that comfort of knowing God is always with us. Great to dwell on as I start my day!

Although we don’t always understand God’s purposes in the trials we experience, we can trust His heart because we know Him.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble.”

Very timely reading for me today... and with so much trouble in the world, these are good to remember.

But take heart! I have overcome the world

I could relate to the author's issue with a tough December and the hope that accompanies the start of a new year. The start of the new year saw continued issues. The interesting thing was that as I turned more towards God I felt His hand in everything that happened. When I should have felt great stress, I experienced enormous peace. When we turn to God and He is in our lives we can only have peace.

If you have not heard the song "Take Heart" by Hillsong United, I highly recommend you take a minute, download it on iTunes and have a listen. The chorus is much like this message. He says, "So take heart" and then lists all the things that Jesus has overcome. It is very encouraging.

This bit is so true, that there will be tribulations. And knowing what sin has done to us and this world, I would wake up with a dark countenance if it weren't for a few short scriptures like this "take heart" and the "But God," in Eph 2:4.

So take heart!



PS - I'll try to remember to take the laptop to San Mateo next week so I don't miss WED & TH